After 12 years in the NFL, Emmanuel Sanders is hanging up his helmet and retiring with the Broncos.
The wide receiver spent six seasons in Denver from 2014-19, totaling 5,361 yards and 28 touchdowns with the franchise. Sanders announced the news with a video posted on the Broncos’ social media.
“I gave it my all. Every rep, every play, I tried to give 100% as much as I could. And that’s why I can hang my hat and say I gave the game everything I had and the game gave it back to me,” Sanders said in the video.
In the video, Sanders recounts some of his favorite moments from his career. He played for the Steelers, Broncos, 49ers, Saints and Bills throughout his time in the NFL, making three Super Bowls, two Pro Bowls and bringing home a Super Bowl ring.
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Pittsburgh drafted him as a third-round pick out of SMU, and Sanders stayed with them for four seasons before moving to the Mile High City where he was a part of their 2015 Super Bowl trip. Midway through the ’19 campaign, the wide receiver was traded to San Francisco before moving to the Saints in ’20 and the Bills in ’21.
He finished his storied career with 704 receptions, 9,245 yards and 51 touchdowns. Sanders shared a separate video on his Instagram with the following caption.
“I have decided to retire from the National Football League. I had a ride. 3 Super Bowl appearances, multiple Pro Bowls and a Super Bowl champion. I gave everything I had to the game and it treated me well so I’m happy with my decision.”
The caption added, “To everyone who has supported me throughout my career.. Thank you! To every organization I have played for.. Thank you! To all my teammates and coaches.. Thank you! To my family and friends… Thank you! I come from the small town of Bellville, Texas. I was just a kid chasing a dream and I caught it! God is the Greatest!”